Champaign Voices

Researchers Say Microplastics Found in Clouds, Human Brains, and Probably Your Favorite Mug

Published: July 10, 2026

New studies detected microplastics in yet more places once considered pure, prompting experts to recommend fewer plastic bags and more existential dread. What do you think?

“So the clouds are trash now. That tracks.”
Dale Evilsizor, Reusable Bag Lost-and-Found Manager
“I've been eating off plastic lids since 1987. Explain my success.”
Karen Pence, Tupperware Archaeologist
“If it's in my brain, that explains the passwords.”
Ron Bodey, Outdoor Grill Plastic-Avoider